A Guide to Tambopata National Reserve

The Peruvian jungle is one of the most important areas of the country since it comprises the second largest part of the Amazon basin, as well as one of the most unspoiled sectors, as it is the Tambopata National Reserve. 

This part of the jungle is also known as the Biodiversity Capital of Peru since it expanded to 247,690 hectares and comprises 632 bird species; 200 fish species; 206 types of reptiles and amphibians, 1,200 butterfly species, and over 1,713 plant species.

And though it may seem that we already know everything about it, there are new discoveries every year that add up to this count! For those adventurous travelers, photographers, or just natural lovers as we are, Tambopata is the perfect destination in the Amazon to visit.

Due to its easy access, it is actually one of the most popular national reserves in Peru, allowing over 50,000 tourists per year to get fully immersed in the lush Peruvian Amazon. The Madre de Dios region offers many outdoor activities ranging from boat trips to even nocturnal walks in the depths of the jungle.

That way you’ll get to know everything about this magical place, including the impact it has on Earth and how we, as humans, have affected one of the most biodiverse places on the planet.

There are so many things to do in the Peruvian Amazon jungle that we had to gather all the highlights and information about it so you can have a broader view of the exciting adventures it has for you. But most importantly, let’s get to know this fairy-tale scenery to its fullest!


Tambopata – A 24-Year-Old Reserve

This region was declared a national reserve to protect the flora and fauna of the region. As we mentioned above, there are thousands of plant and animal species, and about 10 of them are in grave danger. 

Likewise, it was also created to contribute to the sustainable development of the region with proper management of its various renewable natural resources

That way, the Tambopata National Reserve was declared in 2000, allowing us to get to know much more about its importance to the rest of the world and experience one of the wildest sides of our country consciously and, most importantly, sustainably. 


Tambopata’s Importance to the Planet

When it comes to its ecosystem, it may not be as ‘hot and wet’ as the rest of the Amazon. On the other hand, the Tambopata River basin has a warm and humid climate thanks to its proximity to the cloud forest. 

Therefore, its flourishing lands are suitable for many animal and plant species, presenting one of the highest rates of biological diversity in the world. Here you’ll find wetlands, marshes, swamps, pecan groves, and riparian forests, which optimal conditions allow locals to exploit their renewable natural sources.

Dare to explore the heart Peruvian rainforest in Tambopata.

Beyond that, many international and national research centers have settled in this region to investigate and raise awareness of the preservation of the reserve and the Amazon itself.

As you may know, the entire Amazon basin represents 10% of the total biomass of the planet and holds between 90.000 and 140.000 million tons of carbon, which contributes to stabilizing the global climate. 

Besides that, 10% of all the animals in the world are located in the Amazon, without even counting a large number of species yet unknown to scientists. For those and many other reasons, anything that happens in the Amazon can affect us gravely. 


Things to Do in Tambopata

If you’re planning a trip to the Amazon jungle, we have the perfect itinerary for you! As we mentioned above, the Tambopata National Reserve is certainly the best place to experience wildlife and get involved in the ancestral customs of its inhabitants.

Luckily for you, we have teamed up with the low-ecological footprint facilities of the Inkaterra hotel chain so you get to sleep in the very heart of the national reserve while also exploring its surroundings like an actual ranger! Here’s what you should know about the things to do with this experience:


Jungle Tour
During this time, you’ll get to be fully immersed in the hallucinating setting of the Amazon rainforest, where you’ll get to know its importance and impact on the rest of the world. The Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción has beautiful trails, comprising 819 hectares of natural rainforest with cacao plantations, breadfruit trees, rubber trees, and much more.


Nocturnal Life Excursion
This will be an activity for the bravest ones since you’ll cross the Madre de Dios river at night. On this expedition, you’ll get to see the different animals that make their life once the sun is down. Here you’ll get to see caimans, snakes, and other animals that make their way through the darkness and hallucinating nature of the jungle.



Canopy Walkway
This is the most popular attraction within the Inkaterra complex. You’ll climb to the top of a 29-meter tower and observe the wildlife that inhabits the treetops. Later, you’ll walk through a network of bridges connected by eight observation platforms, where you’ll get to see the region’s diverse wildlife.



Anaconda Path
Here you’ll walk across the swamp through a system of wooden bridges from where you’ll be able to observe the biodiversity of the jungle’s swamps. The Anaconda Path is composed of a 200-meter wooden bridge located on top of the wetland, allowing you to observe various amphibians, birds, and mammal species.



The Classic Peru with Amazon Experience package is the perfect option for those who wish to know Peru to its fullest. This itinerary will give you a broader view of the three natural regions of the country, while also showing you everything about their history and cultural expression. 

Make your way through Peru like a local expert! If you wish to learn about the different things to do in this magical South American gem, then you should check our Peru travel packages and start planning the trip of your dreams while you’re here. Tambopata, one of the most diverse regions in the world is waiting for you!


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